How can I enhance my extracurricular activities?
I feel like I’m an average student overall. I’m not quite sure what I’m aiming for in terms of college—maybe somewhere in the top 20 or 30? I do have some interests I’d like to dive into, like coding and writing.
Here’s a snapshot of my current activities:
- Student coordinator for the dance show
- Choreographed for three previous dance shows
- Assisted younger students with choreography
- Led a dance after-school program
- Managed a Spanish after-school club
- Conducted a science experiment club
- Volunteer with the PAWS club at dog shelters
- Member of the Women’s Rights Club, helped organize Women’s Week
- I tutor students in various subjects
- Part of the robotics club, where we placed 2nd and 3rd in competitions
- Head of Public Relations for a peer-reviewed journal
- Dance recreationally
Looking ahead to my senior year, I’m considering:
- A leadership role in the Arts Council
- Choreographing for the school musical
- Starting a writing club
- Launching a chapter for the peer-reviewed journal
- Establishing a dance team
- Participating in the Duke of Edinburgh program
I’ve earned some awards, including Honor Roll, a subject-specific award, and recognition at the dance show.
I know my activities may seem basic and not overly impressive. I’m uncertain about my future career path, so I might take a gap year, apply undecided, or consider community college. Any advice on how to make my extracurriculars stand out more?
First of all, it’s great that you’re reflecting on your extracurricular activities (ECs) and thinking about how to enhance them. It sounds like you already have a solid foundation with a variety of interests and commitments! Here are some suggestions to help you further develop your ECs and make a more compelling application:
Depth over Breadth: While it’s impressive to be involved in many activities, focusing more deeply on a few could be beneficial. Consider which activities you’re most passionate about and where you can take on leadership roles or significant projects.
Create Meaningful Projects: Starting something new, like a writing club or a dance team, can demonstrate initiative and leadership. Be sure to frame these projects around your interests in coding and writing, perhaps by integrating technology into dance (like using coding to create choreography) or starting an online publication for your writing club.
Leverage Your Dance Experience: Since dance is a significant part of your life, consider how you can relate it to other interests. You could start a community outreach program that uses dance to support a cause you’re passionate about, or explore ways to merge it with technology, like creating a dance choreography app.
Explore Coding Further: If you’re interested in coding, consider taking a class or joining a coding club if your school offers one. You might also create a project that combines coding with your passion for dance or writing, such as developing a website for your dance activities or creating a digital platform for budding writers.
Engage with Community and Impact: Your involvement in clubs and volunteering is fantastic! You might want to seek leadership positions within these organizations or start initiatives that have a tangible impact on your community. For example, organizing workshops for younger students could combine your tutoring and leadership skills.
Diversify Your Skills: Take the opportunity to gain skills that complement your current interests. For instance, if you love dance and writing, consider learning about video editing and sharing dance tutorials or short performances online. This can cross-reference your skills and interests in a unique way.
Network and Collaborate: Connect with peers who share your interests. Collaborating on projects can help not only to boost your experience but also to build a support network and gain new perspectives.
Reflect on Your Goals: Take your time to think about what you genuinely enjoy and how it aligns with your future goals. Whether that means applying undecided, taking a gap year, or starting community college, align your ECs with your authentic interests.
Keep Track of Achievements: Ensure you document and reflect on your contributions and the impact of your involvement in different activities. This will be helpful when it comes time to write your college applications or resumes.
Remember, what’s most important is that you are engaged in activities that you genuinely enjoy and that reflect who you are. College admissions look for authenticity, passion, and commitment, so focus on pursuing what you love!